Sexual abuse claims carry an immense emotional weight and require an intricate knowledge of California law to effectively navigate. If you or someone you love has been affected by sexual abuse in San Diego, CA, the Law Offices of Philip M. Cohen is committed to offering the legal support you need during this difficult time.

Understanding Sexual Abuse Claims

Sexual abuse refers to non-consensual sexual acts, often perpetrated through manipulation, coercion, or physical force. The repercussions for victims can be deeply scarring both emotionally and physically. It’s critical to have a solid understanding of the legal avenues available to you as a victim.

California’s Legal Landscape for Sexual Abuse

The state of California has robust laws aimed at punishing sexual abuse offenders and compensating victims. Some of these include:

• Penal Code 261: Rape
• Penal Code 243.4: Sexual Battery
• Penal Code 288: Lewd Acts with a Minor
• Penal Code 289: Sexual Penetration by Force

These laws dictate the legal penalties for offenders and the compensation routes available for victims. Our role is to assist you in navigating these complex laws to ensure you get justice.

How the Law Offices of Philip M. Cohen Can Help

• Initial consultation and strategy outline. We start with a confidential consultation to discuss the intricacies of your case. From this meeting, we map out an appropriate strategy tailored to your situation.
• Comprehensive investigation. We carry out a detailed inquiry to collate all necessary evidence, whether it be medical reports, eyewitness testimonies, or any other form of proof that can substantiate your claim.
• Legal proceedings and representation. Our team is trained to offer complete legal representation. This involves filing the initial paperwork, negotiating on your behalf, and, if necessary, arguing your case in court to get you the best possible outcome.
• Emotional support. We recognize the emotionally charged nature of sexual abuse claims. Our team is well-versed in providing not just legal but also emotional support to our clients.

The Challenges Involved

• Statute of limitations. One of the first challenges in filing a sexual abuse claim is the statute of limitations. For adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, California law allows victims to file a civil lawsuit until their 40th birthday. For newer incidents involving adults, the timeline can differ. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible is crucial.
• Proving your case. Validating the veracity of a sexual abuse claim often involves producing comprehensive evidence. We help you build a compelling case by gathering relevant evidence and interviewing witnesses, if available.